Breaking news: Murder victim family’s pain

The family of Hampden Park man Chris Poole has issued a statement after two teenagers were found guilty of his murder today (Wednesday).

Shane Noble, (pictured) 19, of no fixed address, and a 15-year-old, who cannot be named because of his age, were convicted of murder after the jury of seven women and five men returned its verdict.

Mr Poole’s brother Rick said, “Thanks to the justice system of this country the two accused have been found guilty of the crime they committed, which as far as we’re concerned was the only possible outcome.

“They showed no remorse for their action and all who were there on that fateful night will live with this on their conscience forever.

“In time to come they will be free again and maybe they would have learnt their lesson. We, the family, will never be free of our pain and suffering.

“We would like to thank Sussex Police for its meticulous and thorough hard work in bringing these criminals to justice. Also for the professional but caring and sensitive dedication they have shown us since that first terrible day. We also wish to thank our prosecuting counsel - Mr Farmer for his excellent work and commitment to the case from the outset. We would also like to thank Nick May, Wendy Burton, Clinton Novelle, Andy Mountford-Laker, Hannah Rayner and Alli Mundi for their tireless efforts in making sure we were all protected and cared for throughout this ordeal.

“Christopher’s life was taken from us by two ruthless people and all those who knew him are united in the grief we feel at the loss of a wonderful son, brother and friend who leaves behind a heartbroken partner Penny and four children.”

During the three week trial the court heard Mr Poole, 46, has gone to the Premier convenience store in The Hydneye on the evening of August 16 and on leaving the shop he became involved in an altercation with a group of teenage boys.

Detective Chief Inspector Nick May, who headed a Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team investigation, said, “What happened next was horrific. Mr Poole was left with fatal injuries after being viciously punched and kicked to the head. The attack can only be described as a senseless act of violence.

“There were a number of people in the area at the time and I want to thank them and the community for their support to our investigation.

“Our thoughts are very much with Mr Poole’s family who have sat through the trial with great dignity, hearing very distressing evidence about what happened that night. I hope the verdict brings them some comfort.”

Noble and the 15-year-old boy have been remanded for sentencing on March 15.